When I was a little girl, I used to climb trees.
In fact, I could climb a tree faster and better than most boys. While up in the treetop there was a sense of peace, solitude, and comfort. It was a time of deep thought and reflection for me. Honestly, it gave me a much better view or perception of what was going on around me in the neighborhood.
View: extent or range of vision; a mode or manner of looking at or regarding something; the foreseeable future
Perception: a mental image; awareness of the elements of environment through physical sensation; a capacity for comprehension; enhancement of understanding; discernment
Zacchaeus was a (short) man who used vision and perception to get a better look at The One who ultimately changed the trajectory of his life. In Luke 19, as Jesus passed through Jericho many wanted the opportunity to be in his presence. Zacchaeus ran ahead of the crowd and climbed a sycamore tree because he wanted a better “view” of Jesus. This life changing move was a type of spiritual elevation that he needed to bring salvation to his entire household! Read the text to see how Zacchaeus’ life changed:
And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho.2 And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house.6 And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.8 And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.9 And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. Luke 19: 1-10 KJV
Thus far, can you see how your positional authority, view of life, or how you perceive things can be a game changer not only for you, but for your entire household? It may take for you to come up a little higher in your thinking, views, or mental awareness so that your foreseeable future is one that encompasses Jesus coming to abide at your house. Spiritual elevation is equivalent to advancing in the kingdom of God but with that you must activate discernment and a capacity for understanding what is going on in your realm of influence. Just like the Sons of Issachar, we must understand the times (1 Chronicles 12:32)!
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